Welcome to Uzbekistan – The Heart of the Silk Road
Join us on an unforgettable journey to Uzbekistan, a land where ancient history and modern culture converge. Nestled in the heart of Central Asia, Uzbekistan is a treasure trove of architectural marvels, vibrant bazaars, and warm hospitality.
Explore the Cities of Timeless Charm
Samarkand: Witness the grandeur of Registan Square, the dazzling heart of ancient Samarkand. Stroll through the alleys lined with mesmerizing blue-tiled buildings, a testament to the city’s majestic past.
Bukhara: Step into the medieval city of Bukhara, where history comes alive. Visit the iconic Kalon Minaret and the ancient Ark Fortress, symbols of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Khiva: Wander through the enchanting streets of Khiva’s walled inner town, Itchan Kala. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a living museum, boasting stunning Islamic architecture.
Tashkent: A captivating city a rich tapestry of history, culture, and modernity. Experience the warm hospitality of the Uzbek people, known for their friendliness and willingness to share their culture with visitors.
Immerse in Vibrant Culture & Traditions
Crafts & Textiles: Discover Uzbekistan’s rich tradition of handicrafts. Watch artisans weave silk carpets, craft intricate ceramics, and embroider delicate suzanis.
Cuisine: Savor the flavors of Uzbek cuisine. Relish the national dish, plov, a delightful mix of rice, meat, and vegetables, and explore bustling food markets.
Travel Beyond the Beaten Path
Aral Sea: Witness the haunting beauty of the Aral Sea’s ship graveyard, a poignant reminder of environmental transformation.
Silk Road Villages: Visit remote villages along the ancient Silk Road. Experience the rural charm and hospitality of Uzbekistan’s countryside.
Plan Your Uzbekistan Adventure With The Following Iconic Tours
Uzbekistan Travel Info
Ideal Seasons: The most pleasant times to visit are in the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October), offering a balance between comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. Summer can be extremely hot, especially from July to August, while winters are cold. However, you can spot travelers even in summer.
Getting There: Uzbekistan Airways offers flights to major cities worldwide. Alternatively, overland travel is possible from neighboring countries like Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan.
Within the Country: Uzbekistan has a reliable transport network. Trains and buses are common for intercity travel, and private taxis are also widely used. Air travel is available for longer distances within the country.
Visa Requirements: Uzbekistan has simplified its visa process in recent years. Visitors from 65 countries, including Canada, the European Union, New Zealand, and Australia, can enter visa-free for up to 30 days. Meanwhile, 77 nationalities, including Americans, are eligible for an e-visa, which is valid for 30 days and costs $20. Here is the website for e-visa. https://e-visa.gov.uz/
Note:
Visa-free Entry for Foreign Citizens over 55: U.S. citizens, who are older than 55 and traveling for tourism, are eligible for a visa-free regime with a valid passport. The period of stay cannot exceed 30 days. More information is available at the Embassy of Uzbekistan website.
Typical Route: For a thorough exploration, a week to ten days is recommended, covering Tashkent, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. For a more in-depth experience, consider extending your trip to include the Fergana Valley, Nukus, Moynaq, and the Aral Sea.
Sample Itineraries: A typical itinerary might include a couple of days in Tashkent, followed by 2-3 days each in Samarkand and Bukhara, and concluding with a couple of days in Khiva. The itinerary can be adjusted based on your interests and time available.
Accommodation Options: Uzbekistan offers a range of accommodations from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Budget accommodation starts from around $8 to $12 per night, while mid-range hotels cost about $30 to $40.
Daily Budget: A budget traveler might spend about $30 to $55 per day, while mid-range travelers could expect to spend around $60 to $120 per day. Luxury travelers might spend upwards of $120 per day.
Language: The official language is Uzbek, and Russian is also widely spoken. Learning some basic Russian phrases can be helpful as English is not commonly spoken except in tourist areas.
Local Customs: Uzbekistan is a culturally rich country with a mix of ethnic groups. It’s important to respect local customs and traditions. The country is predominantly Muslim, but religious practices are generally moderate.
Currency: The local currency is the Uzbek Sum (UZS). ATMs are widely available and now accept international cards, although carrying some cash in USD is advisable for exchange.
Exchanging Money: You can exchange money at banks. The black market for currency exchange is not recommended due to risks of receiving smaller denominations or counterfeit notes.
Internet Access: While the internet in Uzbekistan is not as fast as in some neighboring countries, most hotels offer decent Wi-Fi, and 3G coverage is good throughout the country.
SIM Cards: It’s easy to purchase a SIM card, such as Beeline, which offers ample data and calls for a reasonable price. A passport is required for purchase.
General Safety: Uzbekistan is generally safe for travelers. However, as with any travel, it’s wise to stay informed of local news and respect local laws and customs.
Health Precautions: No specific vaccinations are required for entry into Uzbekistan, but standard travel health precautions apply.